Provider Knowledge and Attitudes About Female Genital Mutilation/Cutting in Philadelphia

Due to an increase in immigration from African countries, U.S. healthcare professionals are encountering women affected by Female Genital Mutilation/Cutting (FGM/C). Little formal education exists in medical, nursing or midwifery schools. Additionally, very few studies assess attitudes and knowledge of U.S. providers to care for these women. In order to eventually offer FGM/C-affected women informed and culturally competent care, assessments of provider readiness and attitudes must guide future educational efforts.

A voluntary survey was administered to healthcare providers prior to thirteen separate education sessions on FGM/C at Philadelphia institutions.

Of the 229 surveys distributed, 227 were returned > 50% complete. 61.2% reported encountering FGM/C at least once in the past 5 years, yet 13.7% of participants reported receiving formal training in FGM/C; 77.5% felt unprepared and 47.1% uncomfortable serving patients with FGM/C. 34.1% of participants knew the matriarchal influence on the custom. The majority of providers accurately identified the short and long-term clinical consequences of FGM/C, but 67.7% of participants denied familiarity with laws regarding FGM/C. Attitude assessment revealed beliefs that all types of FGM/C are harmful and a practice rooted in tradition.

While most providers reported encountering patients with FGM/C, lack of formal training leaves them unprepared and uncomfortable serving them. Results demonstrate misunderstanding of the tradition and motives of FGM/C. Our findings support the need for expansion of provider education to provide culturally competent care for women affected by FGM/C.